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Getting Rid of Insomnia and Nightmares

Adequate sleep can be necessary for physical, mental, and emotional health. When individuals are deprived of sleep on a regular basis, their brain function can be affected and may result in difficulty solving problems, reacting to situations, controlling their emotions, and/or making decisions. Sleep deprivation can also be associated with risk-taking behavior, mood swings, irritability, and even depression.

Insomnia, Nightmares, and Those Who Have Served in the Military

Insomnia and nightmares have become a common problem for people who have served in the military, particularly those who have been deployed in combat. It was noted by U.S. Medicine that, ”…Insomnia is reported by up to 54% of the two million men and women who have served in various American combat efforts since Sept. 11, 2001, compared with up to 22% of civilian adults. Not only is insomnia a more frequent problem in servicemembers and veterans, but other sleep disruptions also are common.” U.S. Medicine is a monthly publication catering to healthcare providers that serve the Department of Defense, the U.S. Public Health Service, and the Department of Veterans Affairs.

What Insomnia?

People with insomnia can have a hard time falling asleep. They can toss and turn for hours until they are tired of being in bed, and yet they remain wide awake or also have a hard time staying asleep. A common complaint of those with insomnia is that the slightest noise may wake them up and when they are awakened, it can be difficult to go back to sleep.

The Prevalence of Nightmares

Nightmares may also be a common disturbance for people who have experienced traumatic events; this means that people who have served in the military, particularly those who have been deployed, may be at higher risk for nightmares. These nightmares may be connected to specific incidents, or can just as easily be related to intense emotions connected to past trauma. Nightmares can be recurring and so intense the individual having them can wake up in a sweat.

One thing to remember about nightmares is that they can be a symptom of
PTSD. Those struggling with nightmares may find it beneficial to work with a counselor to discover the root of what is causing the nightmares.

Claiming Your Share of Sleep

Some people may try to solve insomnia and nightmares by drinking or taking medications. If you have been trying to deal with insomnia by taking a “nightcap” or two, remember that increased alcohol intake may have unhealthy and undesirable consequences for you.

There are many medications available to help with sleep. Unfortunately many sleep aids can be habit forming and may begin to cause bigger concerns than those they were intended to treat. You may even find yourself taking medications or pills that were not intended to aid with sleep in order to finally get some rest and relief from your nightmares.

Breaking the Bondage of Insomnia and Nightmares

Make no mistake about it; you are entitled to your share of sleep. Your body needs it, your brain needs it, and if insomnia and nightmares are robbing you of sleep, you may feel the need to do something about it. Call Carolina Counseling Services and begin to address the reason for your insomnia with a licensed, independently contracted therapist. Allow them to help you to work through your nightmares, overcome insomnia, and find new ways to claim the rest you so rightfully deserve.

Confidential / Private Sessions

Carolina Counseling Services contracts independently with Licensed professional counselors/therapists/psychologists who provide a friendly, relaxed atmosphere to everyone. Carolina Counseling Services independently contracted therapists assist individuals, couples, families, and children with counseling services that will help put your life back on track. Working with both non military and military is a joy and the therapist you choose will be happy to assist you whether you are a "civilian", or if you are a dependent or retiree.

Counseling and Therapy are often used interchangeably in our English language. The same is true for Counselor and Therapist. It really doesn't matter which word you use. When you need help, it is best to talk to someone who is not only objective, but who has had lots of experience helping others who have been in similar situations as yourself. A friendly Counselor or Therapist who is trained, licensed and experienced is the one who can assist the most. You don't have to figure it out alone. All independently contracted therapists are licensed, friendly professionals. Call to schedule your appt now!

If we can't help you, we will be happy to refer you to someone who can. We look forward to assisting you!!!.